You, too, can have the Perfect Smile

In the age of modern dentistry, there is no reason to live with a smile that is less than flattering. This article discusses two types of veneers that can be used to cosmetically correct a smile that is marred by discoloring, chips, or misshapen teeth.

Are you unhappy with your smile? Do you find yourself covering your mouth when you laugh to hide discolored teeth or teeth that are slightly misaligned? Do minor chips, pits or grooves in your teeth disturb you when you look in the mirror?

Many times, the dentist may announce that you have a completely healthy set of teeth, but the question is, are they attractive? You may not be plagued with cavities or an improper bite, but do you have a dazzling smile that makes you proud?

How you feel about your smile is just as important, possibly more important, than having physically healthy teeth. A confident smile can be the difference between that job promotion and the same old satisfactory work report. A dazzling smile of white can attract that special someone, while a discolored, chipped, or uneven display might make them think twice about that first kiss.

What can be done about an unattractive smile?

One of the easiest ways to improve the look of otherwise healthy teeth is to have a dental veneer placed on the problem area. Dental veneers come in two forms: thin ceramic (porcelain) shells that are bonded to the outer surface of the teeth and a resin-based composite which is molded to fill in or mask the problem area of the tooth. A visit with your dentist will help you determine which method is preferred for your cosmetic issue.

What does a dental veneer involve?

Both types of dental veneers are fairly simple procedures that can be done by your regular dentist. Ceramic veneers are generally a two-step process and composite veneers are generally a one-step process.

The two-step process of ceramic veneers:

Upon determining that you are a candidate for ceramic veneers, you will make an appointment with your dentist for tooth preparation. The dentist will start by shaving off a thin layer of the tooth’s enamel where the veneer is meant to be placed. This generally involves about one half to one millimeter, a slight amount meant to be replaced by the veneer itself. By shaving this small amount from the front of the tooth, the veneer cover will not feel bulky or awkward in your mouth.

The dentist will then make a mold of your mouth, usually with putty, that can be sent to the dental laboratory that will make your veneers. Generally this will take from one to two weeks. Your tooth will have a slightly rough texture during this time and you may find sharp edges and new angles that take a bit of time to adjust too. As well, you may find that your teeth are more sensitive to hot and cold during this time. These problems should not be significant and require only minor adjustments in eating habits during this brief period of time while waiting for the veneers to be completed.

Your second visit to the dentist will involve the placement of the veneers. The dentist will probably take some time fitting the veneers and trimming them to your specifications. Once pleased, he will begin the process of cementing the veneers to the tooth surface. A thorough cleaning and application of an acidic compound will prepare the tooth for bonding. The adhesion is secured with a special light which activates compounds in the dental cement. Permanent placement is secured almost immediately. Further trimming of excess cement and polishing will complete the process. The dentist will check your bite from proper fitting. A follow-up visit will be scheduled to assure that you are adjusting well to the veneers.

The one-step process of resin-based composites:

In some cases, a smooth attractive smile can be achieved through simple molding of a tooth. After simple etching from an acidic compound, a dentist can apply material to your teeth that can be shaped and blended to hide the problem areas. This material comes in many colors and the dentist will work carefully to make sure the composite matches your natural coloring. This compound is also hardened with a special light. In most cases, the entire process can be completed within a single visit to the dentist.

If you are unhappy with your smile, talk to your dentist about dental veneer options. You can have a healthy set of teeth as well as a set that makes you want to show off your smile. Dr. Maria Lopez Howell of the ADA’s Dental Minute says, “Today there is really no reason to settle for a smile that is less than ideal.”